Bill Werle, a San Francisco Bay area native, played for the San Francisco Seals on their 1949 Tour of Japan.  He also played for the Major League All Stars during their 1951 Japan Tour.  Werle was actually a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates at the time of both tours.  However, being a local boy, he represented the Seals on their tour anyway. 

A left-handed pitcher, Werle turned in outstanding performances on both visits to Japan. In 1949, he went 3-0, 1.54.  In 1951, he topped his 1949 performance with a record of 3-0, 1.33!  Bill Werle pitched in the big leagues from 1949 through 1954.

This card is designated in Japanese Baseball Cards Checklist & Price Guide, Vintage Edition 3.0 as PA 70.  We know that the card was attached to a display sheet by the manufacturer, and that it was probably a second prize winner card.  Werle’s name, position and team (Pirates) are printed in white text near the bottom of the card.

Blank back card

Size:  3 3/8” x 5 3/16”

Condition:  The upper right corner has a small crease, and there is minor damage along both the upper and lower borders.  Sharp image with original gloss.  The back shows evidence of having been originally attached to a display sheet, as would be the case with all examples of this card.